“Wicked Tuna” star Charlie Griffin has died after an unfortunate boating accident. The official Facebook page for the fisherman, who prominently appeared in the National Geographic series, confirmed that Griffin died on March 4 in the Outer Banks. “It is with the deepest sadness we report that Charlie Griffin and his beloved dog, Leila, have passed away in a boating accident today, March 4th,” the Facebook post reads. “Please keep family and friends in your thoughts and prayers. We will forever remember Griff!”

The late fisherman, who captained the Reels of Fortune ship, appeared in “Wicked Tuna” alongside his vessel in Season 2 to 5 of “Wicked Tuna: Outer Banks,” the spin-off of the mainline series. Griffin and his ship appeared as winners of the series in Season 4, which aired in 2017.

The United States Coast Guard told the Outer Banks Voice that Griffin’s vessel went missing on Sunday March 3 near the Oregon inlet. The “Wicked Tuna” star was traveling from Virginia to North Carolina and it’s believed that his boat capsized. Griffin’s body was found alongside Pea Island. A second individual was also on the vessel and the search for them continues as of this writing. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is leading the search with several other departments, which include the US Coast Guard and Dare County Sheriff’s Office.

Charlie Griffin was a standout in Wicked Tuna Outerbanks

Reels of Fortune Captain Charlie Griffin was a standout in “Wicked Tuna: Outer Banks.” Griffin first appeared in the National Geographic series in Season 2 and quickly became a fan-favorite. During his debut season, Griffin became the runner-up of the series, falling short behind Greg Mayer’s Fishin’ Frenzy boat. It was a stellar start to Griffin’s run on the fishing series, which continues to run to this day. In Season 4, Griffin won the show, coming ahead of the courageous Tyler McLaughlin’s Pinwheel by just a few short dollars. Griffin, who was belovedly called “Griff,” retired from “Wicked Tuna: Outer Banks” with Season 5.

Griffin is best remembered for the infectious and fun energy he brought to the National Geographic fishing series. While definitely witty and charming, Griffin’s exciting demeanor was complimented by his preparedness and general respect for his crew and vessel. Economical and savvy, Griffin liked to highlight how he prioritized catching fish as opposed to comfort, trying his best to catch as much as he and his team could. In his boat tour of the Reels of Fortune, Griffin discussed how bigger boats had more luxurious amenities, something he rarely cared for.

For Griffin, fishing was a family business — his First Mate was his son, Jake. Not only could the “Wicked Tuna” star get paid, but the business served as family time. Some of the best moments featuring the Captain involve him working alongside his son, cementing just how important fishing was — and is — to the Griffin clan.